Sometimes small places leave the biggest impressions. And Montenegro has left a lasting impression. Although I only spent less than 1 day in the country I was instantly charmed by it. Let me show you why.

The country is tiny. Both geography and population; At only 13,812 km² and just over half a million people, 625,000 to be exact. But every part of the coastline I had the pleasure of seeing was pristine.

Montenegro translates to “Black Mountain” (Monte Negro) and was aptly named by the Venetians since the country is 80% mountains and is one of the most rugged terrains in Europe. That is a lot space for nature and residing there would make you feel dwarfed by the Mountains. The population is scattered throughout the country but many live on the Mediterranean coast which is a mere 293 km; Prime Real Estate. And the coast is the section of the country that I experienced. We drove the length of the coast and stopped 3 times: one photo op of Rock island and Sveti Dorde, 2 hours in Kotor, and the island of Sveti Stefan.

Rock Island and Sveti Dorde

Sveti Dorde is a natural island in the Bay of Kotor near the town of Perast. On the tiny island is Saint George Benedictine Monastery and a cemetery.

Rock Island is an artificial island built of rocks. People would through rocks out to expand the island. Another method was sinking ships by filling them with rocks. On the small rock island is the Church of Our Lady of the Rocks.

Kotor

The Prettiest city in the Prettiest location. The city is located on Kotor Bay and this is what beauty looks like. The city is walled in a triangular shape with a mountain stretching up behind it. And up these mountains, some 4.5 km above the city, is the St. John Fortress. Natural Setting, Architectural finesse, and a looming fortress? This city has it all. And UNESCO has recognized it; for its human creative genius.

If you’re up for burning lungs and the best view in town then you better hike up all 1350 stairs to the top of St. John’s Fortress. If not, wandering the city and its many churches, is another way to see Kotor. This city has an impressive landscape and its only fault it the sheer number of tourists it is attracting (myself included).

Sveti Stefan

It is a tiny islet crammed full or orange roofed houses. It is a mini city! Originally the island held 12 families and a wall was built around them to protect from Turks and Pirates.

Only guests are welcome onto the island, so we were only given a brief glimpse of Sveti Stefan. But those moments provided enough to satisfy my cravings for the perfect island. Just look at it for yourself:

And this is the Montenegro that astounded me with its impressive beauty and natural radiance. When I return, and I will soon, I plan on heading inland to explore the country’s namesake: The Mountains.

Montenegro; 80% Mountain, 100% Beautful

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